Tuesday, December 30, 2008

You have probably already noticed there is something terribly wrong in this photo. A short board and flippers are of no use to B on deck. She needs water. B will never hang ten here. She's stuck with her neck out in the rose garden. It is not where her heart is.

Houston, B has a problem. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that out. If anyone above is listening, and B believes You are, "Help". Her eye is fixed on you.

B finds comfort in these words:

You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stopand rest.Every moment you know where I am. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD. You both precede and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,too great for me to know! I can never escape from your spirit! I can never get away from yourpresence! Psalm 139:3-7

One day the surf will b up! Until then, I am waiting on you. Meet me "In the Garden".I love you Jesus.

Monday, December 29, 2008

Tea for Two was a "moment" in my walk with the Lord and I know everyone who was a part of the tea felt the same. The room was filled with JOY, pureJOY! You felt it the minute you stepped into the room.

Teapots were the centerpiece at each table. Chocolates and a Christmas ornament with the word Joy filled their cups.

Each china tea cup was unique and a 'take home' gift along with a few tea bags. Our scripture verse Isaiah 9:6 was on a card at every place setting along with candy canes and the bell.

In my talk, he Lord not only wanted me to share about His names: Wonderful counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace but He wanted them to hear the bells ring with who they are or can B in Him. I will never forget the look on one young woman's face when I said, "You are significant." I knew the Lord was speaking to her heart as those words left my mouth. She knew it too. It was a beautiful moment to remember.

Twenty six women attended the tea with us. Here are a few of the tea party girls! We sang Joy to the World and the tea party song, I'm a Little Teapot, complete with hand motions. Yes, we did that. Corny I know, but everybody was smiling! It was a great ice breaker and we all laughed as we poured it out. Later in my talk, I would bring them back to that pouring out moment, as I talked about Jesus pouring out His blood for us. We also had a beautiful cake for Jesus and sang Happy Birthday to Him.

We had some peeping turtles at our window. How precious are these children! They watched the entire tea party. Our door man, Tim, supplied them with treats.

My children thought Santa came early as they saw our dining room filled with gifts. Many women donated gifts to hand out at the end of the tea. Each woman also received a Bible wrapped in beautiful gold paper. We had sooooo many gifts left over we were able to share with a shelter for abused women.

Tea for Two was POWERFUL because it was about the name above all names. JESUS. No one at the tea party missed the fact that this tea party was in honor of Him. I could see tears streaming down many faces during my talk. Jesus was touching hearts.He had tea with us. We gave praise to Him and ended the tea party singing Amazing Grace. What a picture that was! Sitting at the table singing Amazing Grace! I pray there will be more tea parties. I think I am supposed to start a new collection. You guessed it. Tea cups! Tea cups for turtle girls....His girls.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

If you ever wanted to see a 'real' picture of B, this is definitely it. Meet B, the peeping turtle, not to B confused with a peeping Tom of course.

B is always sticking her neck out, trying to take a peek at what God is doing in the dark. This weekend she is hosting a Christmas Tea Party in a very dark place. She couldn't resist peering into the cup they will be drinking from. B is like a little turtle waiting for Christmas morning. She knows God has something good simmering and she can't wait for a sip.

B's speaking at this tea party. Her message is titled "Tea for Two". Because Jesus drank from the cup, we are never alone. He is Immanuel, God with us.

For to us a child is born,to us a son is given,and thegovernment will be on his shoulders. And he will be called WonderfulCounselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isa 9:6

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

B would like to share one of her favorite books, The Turtle Saver by Laurie Parker. This book is written for little turtles but the message also applies to big turtles. Listen to what Laurie writes:

"A man driving along in his truck sees a turtle in the middle of the road. Being good-hearted, the man stops and moves the turtle to safety...And this simple act that was kind-hearted Is how several things that took place all got started...."B loves this story. It shares the far-reaching effects of one good deed. It reminds her as she follows Jesus how important it is to B obedient. Often we classify whether the things the Lord nudges us to do are a 'big thing or a small thing'.We may use the size of the thing to evaluate the importance of the nudge. BIG mistake!Some turtles keep waiting on the log for the BIG thing and the Lord keeps waiting for those turtles to obey Him in the seemingly small thing. For who has despised the day of small things. Zech 4:10If your heart reflects the REAL turtle saver, you know He ordered your steps to see that turtle in the road. Stop. Help the turtle in the middle of the road. They want to get to the other side just like you. Save the Turtles! B obedient!

Monday, December 8, 2008

Saturday the 3 B's, Barbara , Barbara, and Betty went to a Christmas tea at a local church. There were over 350 women at this event seated at round tables decorated to the hilt. Each table's hostess decorated a table with her own linens, china, and centerpiece; They also had special gifts for the women seated at their table. The B's received a manger scene from our hostess Sharon. They allowed 30 minutes for the 'Tour of Tables' before the event began. Martha Stewart would have been impressed. It was quite a spread! This red bird was part of the decor at our table. Feathers. Fluffy feathers. More for my collection to get my wings. They made me smile. I took this bird home with me ;)

Sharon Jaynes was the speaker at the event. Her take away for the audience was, "What are you giving Jesus for His birthday?" After all, the hustle and bustle is about Him....Right? We received a piece of paper at the end of her message to write down our gift to Jesus. Then we dropped it in a gift wrapped box at the front of the room. I filled in the lined paper with my gift . I know what He wants from me.

Do you know what Jesus would like to receive from you? What will you give to the King of Kings?

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Today I am sharing another newbie in my turtle collection. My sister gave me this turtle for Thanksgiving. She named herB, the green light turtle.

When my sister told me her name, I knew it was a word for me. The Lord was answering my prayer with this glowing turtle. A green light means GO!

You see, I have been praying whether I should do a women's outreach program this Christmas. It sounds like a no brainer, but this is a little different from my usual speaking engagements. I would be ministering in a visibly dark place. This apartment complex is in a poor neighborhood with lots of drugs and crime. I have no idea if the women would come to a Christmas program. What better place is there for the Light of the World to be seen than in a dark place. I have to B honest though, really honest. It is not the kind of speaking engagement I had in mind when I asked God for one. : ) It's funny how God's answers always look different than I imagined them to B.

God connected me to this apartment complex over a year ago. A fire had destroyed eight units and those families lost everything. God nudged me to do something about it. I took a step of faith and God sent the resources. I lead the mission with other people from my church to help them get back on their feet. The Lord showed Himself strong and very personal to those single mothers and their children.

The Lord showed me some things too. He opened my eyes to the struggles that go on daily in a dark place. It is one thing to hear it on the news and another to see some things for yourself. I have been in this apartment complex when shots were fired and blue lights flashing. Yet, the thought of ministering to the women who live there will not leave me alone. I asked God to shut the door if this is not of Him. Part of me wanted to hear a door slam. Instead, I got a green light.

I am not the first or the last to get a green light from the Lord.

Remember Moses. He saw fire in a bush and the Lord spoke to him when he turned to check it out. The LORD said, "I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering... So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt."

Moses got the green light that day. It wasn't the only signal he received from the Lord. After the Israelites left Egypt, Pharaoh changed his mind. He wanted the Israelites back, under his thumb again. Pharaoh's army began chasing Moses and the Israelites. As they were closing in on them, Moses was looking at the Red Sea ahead of him wondering what he should do. He cried out and the Lord had a word for him.

He said to Moses, "Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on.

Green Light Moses! You know Moses didn't chose the Red Sea route; He never planned to walk through the sea. It looked impossible, over his head. Moses witnessed once again the power of God being with him. The Red Sea was just a momentary stop on the way to the Promise Land.

I think this apartment complex is on the way to the land God has reserved for me. Like Moses, I know He will be with me on my journey. After all, I'm His girl. B, the green light turtle reminds me that God's thoughts are not my thoughts, neither are my ways, His ways. I would not have planned to cross the Red Sea on foot or minister in a place that's over my head, having no idea how to do that. But I have committed my way to Him, knowing He will direct my path.

Maybe you are crying out to the Lord about what He wants you to do or where you are to go.Watch for His signals. This is what the LORD says:

"Stand at the crossroads and look;ask for the ancient paths,ask where the good way is, and walk in it,and you will find rest for your souls."Jer 6:16

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

B is a new turtle in my collection. As you can see, she's quite charming. I hesitate to mention this fact about B, but she is okay sharing it with you.B looks like a butterball turtle! How appropriate is that for a Thanksgiving turtle. She's stuffed full of Thanksgiving and Praise for her Father in Heaven. Listen to what will be coming out of her at the table.

I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart;I will tell of all yourwonders. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, OMost High. Ps. 9:1-2

As she was searching for the right ingredients for her stuffing, she saw this verse:

But I, with a song of thanksgiving , will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. Salvation comes from the LORD." Jonah 2:9

B has been given much from the Lord. She's very thankful and grateful for His touch on her life. She needed to repeat Jonah's words; What I have vowed, I will make good. Thank you God. B loves you!

Friday, November 14, 2008

What do you do when you hear knocking and you realize it is God at YOUR door?

He's not looking for directions, the pastor, your neighbor, or the church committee. He's looking for you! The call is for you and He personalizes it with a visit.

I received a call like that three years ago. The Lord let me know He wanted me to talk about Him in a much more public way. He wanted me to B a "speaker". A lot of people hang up when they get that kind of call. Not me. I took a different approach. I submitted a short list with five names that would be better candidates for the assignment than me. The Lord totally ignored my input. Imagine that! His face was set like flint. He was waiting for me to submit my name for whatever He wanted to do in my life. The struggle inside me began.

It was a trying moment! Would I continue on the journey He planned for my life or would I stop following Jesus? I could feel His eyes upon me awaiting my answer. I gave Him a sign. I took a step of faith. I made an appointment and told my pastor about God's call. I expected him to fall over laughing, but he didn't. My next step was to join a local Toastmasters Club and learn about public speaking. Then I took the biggie. I signed up to attend CLASServices, a conference for speakers and writers, in Tennessee. To me, this was like Peter stepping out on the stormy sea, knowing Jesus was ahead of me but still unsure of the surface I was walking on. It was a nine hour drive to the conference, so I had a lot of alone time with the Lord. We had great conversation on the way. On the last day of the conference, I had to give a 3 minute talk using scripture they selected and make an outline. You may have noticed if you visit my blog, I use symbolism in many of my posts, Turtle Tuesdays for example. I decided to B creative and use song titles in my outline and talk. Here is the layout:

The 'Him Possible' Dream
1. A Moment Like This- I gave my personal testimony of God changing my
life.
2. Dream On- I told what happens when you submit to Jesus being Lord of
your life. He gives you a dream. Used scripture.
3. Keep on Truckin'- What you have to do until you finish your race!

The content of my three minutes was good. What was NOT good is that I gave my talk the way I saw other speakers do it. I was not like them. God had given me something different. I tried to be Barbie that day, not B. I was so mad at myself. Why did I do that????

I started beating myself up the moment I left the conference. It was going to be a long drive back to Florida. I decided to listen to some music to divert my attention from my horrible talk. The hills of Tennessee were interfering with the reception on my radio. My husband had installed Satellite Radio for my trip knowing that would occur. I hit the #8 button, the 80's music. The words 'Dream On' by Aerosmith went across the screen. I rolled my eyes and immediately thought ...that is the last song in the world I want to hear. Then I hit the #7 button, the 70's. Keep on Truckin' came out of my speakers! A picture (vision) flashed before my eyes. I saw people standing with their hands raised in the air worshipping. I was looking at them from above. I never saw myself but I knew I was on a stage. My mess up had not changed God's call on my life.

I started crying. God gave my speech back to me in 5 words.

Dream On. Keep on Truckin'!

God taught me a lot about speaking that day and the dream He has given me. Telling the world about Him is The 'Him Possible' Dream. I can't make it happen. It has to b His Way, not mine.

I believe God has a plan so good for everyone's life that it sounds like a dream
too good to be true. But it's not. With God ALL things are possible.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Meet B and the Turtle Musketeers. You have probably seen these hand motions before. They have been around for years! Not to b outdone by a bunch of monkeys, B and friends got all stacked up to add a new twist. Today they share words of wisdom.

That's B on the bottom of the stack. Here is her proverb:

He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.Prov. 21:23

Lord, please give B and her bloggy friends the wisdom to know when to speak up and when to shut up.

B2's in the middle. She used to cover her ears and sing the La, La song. No more...Hear this:

Listen to my instruction and be wise;do not ignore it. Blessed isthe man who listens to me,watching daily at my doors,waiting at my doorway.Prov.8:33-34

Lord, thank you for opening our ears that we may hear your voice. We want to obey you.

B3's at the top. She has a Big Word for somebody today.

A prudent person foresees the danger ahead and takes precautions.The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. Prov.27:12

Lord, you give us signs and warning when there is danger ahead. I pray we seek shelter in you. You are our strong tower.

Friday, November 7, 2008

While we were praying..Something Happened! Don't you just love that! Something Happened!!!! God gave us a sign!

Every Tuesday from 12:00 to 1:00 , I meet with three other women to pray in the Sanctuary of our church. We are just a pocket of prayer girls standing in the gap for our church, community, and yes we even pray for the whole world. Outside the church we hang a big sign that says:

Stop by for Prayer NOW. We get a few drop ins, but I don't think a lot of people feel called to pray past their own needs.

In the picture on the left, you can see the cross in our sanctuary. Natural light comes in from above the cross. There is a prism of mirrors which reflect light and make rainbow colors around the cross. The patterns are always changing. It is very stunning at times. I took this photograph on Tuesday to give you an example.

Last week at Prayer Now, the colors around the cross were so amazing. I have never seen it look so beautiful. The cross was covered in rainbows. We paused to take a picture of the cross with our camera phone. The camera lens and our natural eyes saw two different images. The lens saw the light around the cross as an arrow. We were stunned. God gave us a sign. He had a message for the prayer girls and for you.

LOOK UP!

Has something in life got you down? Maybe your marriage, job, the election, the choices your children are making.

LOOK UP! PRAY expectantly. The Lord hears and sees all.

LOOK UP! See the sign given to the whole world. His name is JESUS. He is The Way!

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

B has interrupted her regular Turtle Tuesday post to join many others at the polls and in prayer. Hear our cries Lord.

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chron 7: 14-15

Later this week, I have an incredible picture to share with you. Look for my post "While We Were Praying"

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Have you ever hesitated sharing what 'God said to you'?
This has been on my mind so I thought I would ask my two readers these questions. I've noticed on blogs and occasionally when a pastor talks about something God spoke to him or her that sounds personalized, they tend to shrink back. No sooner than those words are out of their mouth, they feel compelled to explain God's voice.

"No, it wasn't the audible voice of God. It was an impression. A small still
voice. A tug inside. He spoke to my heart." The list goes
on.
Do we always need to share how He spoke? I realize this can be a
teaching moment, helping people know how to hear His voice. Is that the
reason for the statements or are we trying to make sure no one thinks we are strange? When you say, "God spoke to me" ears of all sizes perk up.
A couple of weeks ago, I was speaking at a charity event. I shared a story that included something 'God said' that was personal to me but applied to all of us. Trust me. This was not about drinking red Kool-aid or anything that wasn't grounded in the Word of God. A man came up and introduced himself at the end of the event. He wanted to know my story with the Lord. We had an uplifting conversation about Jesus. He told me I ruffled some feathers at his table that night.

Me??? Ruffle feathers!! One man was not so sure about my story, the part where I shared what God said to me. He asked people at his table, "Do you think God spoke to her like that? "Yes" this man answered. Then the man looked at him and said, "Do you think God would speak to me?"

My intention was never to ruffle someone's feathers. That's not my mission. I am supposed to share His words. I believe the Holy Spirit was ruffling the feathers. I think this man heard that he wasn't hearing. God wanted it to bother him. For a Christian, hearing the Lord speak, that's normal.
Jesus said:My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27

I have been debating whether to post this, and He confirmed it this morning. Listen to this in today's Jesus Calling. My desire is that My "sheep" hear My voice continually, for I am the ever- present Shepherd.He wants us to hear!

Here is a Q Tip for today: Quiet time with Jesus. Pull away from the computer, tv, your cell phone and open your Bible. Pray. Find refuge under His feathers. Listen. You may have the opportunity to share what God said to you. If your hearing is good, share it with confidence that God will use it to speak to someone's heart.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Turtle Tuesday is a little different today. I usually feature a turtle from my collection however, I do not own Tiffany, the turtle. I saw her picture in a magazine.This turtle is inspired by the legacy of Louis Comfort Tiffany, an artist best known for his work in stained glass and mosaics.

B got all choked up when she saw this turtle. She had to tear the picture from the magazine. You may think B is crazy! Why would she cry over a turtle picture? There has to b more to this turtle story than you can see with the natural eye.THIS TURTLE HAD A MESSAGE For B. Here is what washed over B's heart the moment she saw this turtle. Tiffany is looking at Bee and smiling. "Everything is Beautiful" is the song she sings. B recalled the lesson from her mosaic cross on the post below. He makes everything beautiful in its time. (Eccl 3:11) Coincidence? B did not think so.

B looked up the meaning of the name Tiffany. In the Greek, it means Manifestation of God. B felt His Presence in this picture. The Lord, the real master of all 'stained' glass, wanted B to see His smile and know His love for her.

That is how Jesus sees you too...through eyes of love! You are a beautiful piece of His workmanship. Read His words to you. Plant them in your heart.

The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take greatdelight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over youwith singing Zep. 3:17

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Hundreds of mirrors were used to make this mosaic cross. Each mirrored piece is unique in appearance, however all of the pieces have one thing in common. They're broken! The silver lining is scratched from underneath some of the mirrors, leaving black spots. Other pieces are chipped, cracked, and their jagged edges made it look like their break was traumatic. As I was gluing the mirrors on the cross, I kept looking for a 'good' piece, but there were none.

I had to take a peek after I finished a section of the cross to see if I looked broken? Inside I heard these words, "Barbara, quit looking at your broken self and see what I have done." Stunned, I picked up my cross from the floor and leaned it against my kitchen wall. God let me see the cross and the broken pieces from His viewpoint, the 'Most High' viewpoint there is. The more broken pieces I added, the more beautiful it became. I saw my brokenness in a new way. He has made everything beautiful in its time. Eccl 3:11

When God rocked my world eight years ago, I had a Bible, but I never read it. I didn't even know where it was. How sad is that! That moment in God's Presence changed everything. I KNEW God was real and He KNEW who I was. I found that Bible. The girl (me) looked in the mirror of God's word and saw Jesus. I 'B'ecame His Girl that day. Joy! Joy! Joy! I needed to know who He was and what He wanted from me. I remember this moment from that day so clearly . As I left my house that afternoon, these words I grew up singing in church ran through my mind....Let others see Jesus in you, Let others see Jesus in you. I was beaming! My mirror was clean. The overwhelming JOY of that moment has never faded. I pray that it never will.

You maybe the only mirror some people look into today! Dust off your mirror! Shine.But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Cor 3:18

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Meet B, the turtle post :)B tends to step out of her Box on Turtle Tuesdays and today is no exception. You may expect this post to b a little tongue and cheek, but it has a point. This week B has been traveling on the Blog and she found a post after her turtle girl heart. It wasn't a regular inspiring post, although she read many of those. It was about a turtle on a fence post. Check out AnnieBlogs post:http://annieblogs.com/2008/10/05/a-turtle-on-a-fence-post/

Seeing two turtle post within two days of each other made B sit and think. Some things are worth 'pond'ering over. B tries to pay attention to signs ,especially when she keeps seeing them. Are there any signs you keep seeing ? "Maybe, just maybe, there were many turtle girls on the post" B thought.

Annie said, "No one looks at the turtle and thinks the turtle put himself there. Quite the contrary. The turtle was placed there. And it is WAY obvious."

B knows that's true. She could have never climbed that high on her own. She has been placed there, but she knows she has not been abandoned. Sometimes B get a little impatient on her watch post. Patience has never been her greatest fruit, but sitting on the post has helped that.

You may B the turtle in the picture this Turtle Tuesday. B has some post to post thoughts for you.

Your steps are ordered turtle girl and so are the resting spots.

If you look around, the view is pretty good from the fence post; most turtles can’t see what you can. Take in the view. Don't waste your time there complaining. There's always a reason for the layover. When you are removed from your post and yes, yes, turtle girl, you will b, remember what you saw. Keep this lesson in your shell. It will guide you when you can't see the forest for the trees. Keep praising and praying from the post. B an expectant turtle!

Mic 7:7But as for me, I watch in hope for the LORD, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.

Sunday, October 19, 2008

I wrote most of this post in June after She Speaks. Today God nudged me to complete this draft and post it. Only He knows why. I hope this encourages my two readers. God knows where you are and His eyes are on you! Walk confidently in Him. He has you covered friend. Here's my God story from She Speaks:

Wendi and I drove from Florida to North Carolina a few months ago to attend She Speaks, a Proverbs 31 Ministries conference. On the drive, Wendi got a bad headache. She thought her sinuses might be infected. "Barbara" she said, "I need you to take me to an Urgent Care facility after we check in at Embassy Suites." The hotel staff helped us locate an Urgent Care facility nearby. We arrived at the Urgent Care five minutes after it closed. We prayed for relief from her headache, hoping we would not need to go there the next day.

God answered our prayer. The next morning Wendi felt fine and she began her morning leadership session. The Speaker's track, did not start until the afternoon, so I had a leisurely breakfast in the hotel. Julie Gillies, a writer from Florida, joined me at my table. We got to know each other a little. Julie had been to the ER a couple of days before the conference. She had pleurisy, an inflammation in your lungs. She was not feeling too good and was hoping her medicine would make a major difference soon. While we were sharing our stories, it became clear I was supposed to give her the book,The Dream Giver, by Bruce Wilkinson. God nudged me to pack it for my trip. I knew He would show me who should have it. The book would be a surprise for Julie later that day.That evening before dinner, with the book in hand, I went searching for Julie. Would I find her in this sea of women? As I walked toward the back of the main room, I saw her face. Immediately, I knew something was wrong. A few Proverbs staff members were talking to her. Julie was in major pain. "She needs to go to Urgent Care" the Proverbs staff said.

Listen to this God moment....This was my first visit to North Carolina. I knew the location of our hotel and the Urgent Care facility. I told the Proverbs staff that I would take her to Urgent Care. They did not know where it was located. I checked my watch. We had fifteen minutes to get there before closing. The race began. I ran upstairs and got my car keys. The Proverbs staff called Urgent Care to let them know we were on our way.

They waited for us. Julie was the last patient of the day. As I sat in the waiting room, it hit me that God had set this trip up. I started getting all teary eyed. Breakfast with Julie, the Dream Giver Book, seeing her in pain, knowing where the Urgent Care facility was...He set me up to be able to help Julie. The Lord reminded me that He is directing my steps. I was humbled He wanted me to see His Presence in the whole scenario as it unfolded.

We found a pharmacy and got Julie her much needed medicine. She went to her room to rest. I rushed to catch my last session of the day with Wendy Pope, a P31 speaker. I knew I was late and this speaking session was so important to me. A woman on the elevator told me I had not missed anything. Dinner went past the scheduled time and everything was pushed back.

God let me know at that moment, He did that for me! As I complete this post, I am so touched how personal God is to each of us. Sometimes He lets us see His hand guiding our footsteps. I think we are supposed to remember those moments.

There will be times we can't find a clue that His hand is near, but it is. Heis...The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.Psalm 145:18

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

This hand towel was a special gift from another turtle. B has been 'pond'ering what to do with her crisp white towel for some time. Part of her wants to save it. "Save it for what?" you might ask.

B has seen lots of other turtles save their gifts. You may be familiar with the 'Save the Towel' campaign. The turtles wait for a special occasion to use their towel. Many days and even years go by with their towel tucked away in their shell. For some turtles, that special day never comes. Their towel is never used and they leave the pond with great regret.

B thought about hanging up her towel for show, hoping no one would need it. She can't really do that though because she sees the dirty turtle toes around her. She knows how great it is to have your turtle feet cleaned! That's when she began to understand why she was given a towel. "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others." (I Peter 4:10)

B has a riddle for you: What's black and white and red all over? If you answered the newspaper, that's only part of the answer. The real answer is the Bible. The red letters make the purpose of the towel clear. Read Jesus's red words after He used his towel.

"Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. John 13:12-17

Monday, September 15, 2008

Btraded in her old shell a few years ago and got a new model. The sun roof came with it. Now she always travels in the light.

I know some of you are wondering how many miles per gallon B gets in her new shell. Mileage is a hot topic these days. Many turtles are worried about the oil supply. Not B! She's going places. Her model came equipped with everything she needs for her travels. All she has to do is Ask, Seek, and Knock and she has exactly what she needs. Who would want to travel any other way? B also has a special finish coat on her sun roof. Her shell not only lets light in so she can see, but it magnifyies the maker of her shell. Jesus, the name above all names. If your still walking in darkness, trade UP. Get the Son inside. He's the REAL DEAL !

Check out B's bumper sticker:Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Ps 119:105 NIV

Monday, September 8, 2008

Meet B, the turtle with the rose colored glasses. She is a Pet Shop turtle from Target. A friend gave me B after hearing a speech for my Toastmasters Club. You see, this B is a speaker and she is always looking for places to share her gift.

The speech she was giving was her 'big' one, the one that requires you to stick your neck out. No hiding in your turtle shell! You can't just talk about this subject, you have to walk the talk.My speech title:Walking By Faith Down Aisle 15B talked about looking at the world through rose colored glasses. B knew all about that. She wore these glasses for years! They filtered the 'Son' light from her eyes. She couldn't see all the colors. She had no idea what she was missing.

One day B saw a blinding light that left her awe struck! Her rose colored glasses did not work anymore. They lost their appeal. She put on her God colored glasses. Now she sees many colors.

B keeps this picture of herself wearing the rose colored glasses as a testimony of her 'before' look. Most turtles who see her now would never believe how blinded she was by the world's rose colored glasses! Looking through the right lens makes the world look different.

That's this turtle girl's story for today... I was blind but now I see!" John 9:25

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

MeetB, the joyful turtle. She really is full of joy. Sometimes her joy is so big she starts leaping on the log. Imagine a Carly Patterson style leap! (Well, I did say imagine :) Turtles see her joy and wonder where it comes from. She shares with the other turtles that joy is a gift from God. At times, the log she lives life on is more like a rolling balance beam. Most turtles wouldn't expect to see leaping when the waves are crashing over her head. B leaps anyway. She remembers these words:

Consider it pure joy , my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. James 1:2-3

B's joy isn't a reflection of her circumstances. Her joy is reflected in her circumstances!

The LORD is my strength and my shield;my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. Ps 28:77

Friday, August 29, 2008

Have you ever been stuck on something? A thought enters your brain and it will not go away. Sometimes that can drive you crazy! You keep recycling it....over and over again! Maybe it's the lyrics of a song, a comment from a friend, or something you read. A yellow 'post it' note forms in your mind and marks the moment. I had one of those sticky moments in a Bible study called Downpour by James MacDonald.

I got stuck as I read these words:

Sin In The Mirror: A Picture Of BrokennessWhoa...Sin in the Mirror! Who wants to look at that? Pictures of Brokenness...that's not pretty, is it? I didn't want share my photos in the family scrapbook! Who does??? ( I would rather take the picture so I don't have to B in it? As I am posting this, it made me wonder about you.... Are you the one always holding the camera?)

I tried to process the recycling message of 'Sin in the Mirror: A Picture of Brokenness'. Could I just slip that into the trash? Maybe no one would notice. Yeah right... if you know God a little, and that's about as much as I would claim, you know He doesn't miss a thing! God has a different way of dealing with trash and bad photos. You might say He is the first Scrap-booker. He uses everything in His book and it all turns out for good. He wouldn't let me remove my 'post it' note. Like my husband, He is always giving me instructions . : ) Adding to my list... Sometimes I do the additions and sometimes I just keep them on the list. Do good intentions count?My material list for His add on project: wood, glue, and lots of pieces of broken mirror. It was a long process to complete His assigned work. I thought I knew what He wanted to do when I started the project. HA! After I saw my brokenness, He would let everyone else stand in front of the mirror and check out how they looked too. The photo above, is step one of the project. As I looked into the mirror, I certainly saw my brokenness. My image was fragmented. I was totally messed up! Not exactly the glamor shot I dreamed of as a child. This picture would take more than photo shop to fix. Did I really have three eyes in the picture? How could I have three eyes and and still not see clearly? I was stunned looking at the shattered pieces.

God was watching me view the negatives. Evidently, I gazed too long at my image . Here is what God said as I was looking at Bin the mirror:

"Barbara, quit looking at your broken self and see what I have done." Startled by His words, I got off the floor....Oh my....now look at the picture He showed me......I will leave you a 'Post it' note photo in Part 3 The Girl In The Mirror soon. It is worthy of a look. Stop by and SEE the finished project. He makes everything beautiful in its time!

Monday, August 25, 2008

Sometimes we don't like what we see, especially when we look up close. It's not just the fine lines and creases that bother us, although we try to our best to cover them up. As we move closer to the mirror, we see so much more than our face! We see the reflection of our lives. Some of us get stuck looking at ourselves. It's not a pretty picture we see. "How did this happen?" we ask. What in the world was I thinking??? Or maybe I should say, Not thinking!

Do you remember being asked this question when you were young?

What do you want to "B" when you grow up?

Maybe your grown up picture didn't develop into the look you dreamed of. The glamorous woman, "The Girl In The Mirror" by Norman Rockwell, hoped she would B has yet to appear. In fact, that dream faded from view years ago.

Now what???

Could it B that you grew up looking in the wrong mirror?

God often speaks to me when I am in front of the mirror. This week I will share some of His words . Stop by and take a look...you might see yourself! :)

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Meet B, the turtle of light. When you first see B, you notice the unique pattern cut into her shell. She is not a 'paper doll turtle' that eventually wears out. She's a real piece of work fashioned by a Master Artist. To be honest, I have to tell you this aboutB. She is often slow and dull in her understanding of things. Turtles from ages past are known for B' ing like that. It has taken her a long time to understand what to do with her cut outs.

Maybe you can relate to B's condition. Do you ever wonder what you are supposed to do with your cut outs? We all have them. Most of us try to cover them up, but God wants to use them.

After sitting on the log basking in the sun, B can see clearly now. She thought she wanted to look like other turtles. Their cut outs were not as noticeable as hers. She looked like she had been the target practice turtle with all of her holes. She now knows that she was B'ing shot at for years and her covering was like a paper doll turtle. It did not last. B sees her "holy" shell in a different light today. For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 2 Cor 4:66

A "holy" shell shines bright in dark places! You were 'Made to shine""B" His Girl

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Last week I was on a family reunion vacation in Kentucky of all places. We had a wonderful time! I had no part in planning any of the trip, but I had to smile when we arrived. The name of the resort was Green Turtle Bay! Talk about turtles... it was a turtle girl's oasis!

In the picture on the left, you can see a multitude of turtle heads sticking out of the water. They were looking at our family. "Did they bring us something to eat?" the turtles wondered. As the bread touched the water, it was like a turtle army swimming to the table. If turtles can talk : ), they must have told their friends. Turtles were coming from all directions for a taste of fresh bread.

As we left Green Turtle Bay to return home Saturday, we had two loaves of bread left over from our week. I decided to give my bread(turtle food: ) to the children vacationing next door. I wanted them to experience the delight in breaking bread with others.

It is always about sharing our bread with others. I saw a sign this week that said: Don't count your blessings, share them! Share the bread of life today.

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Meet B, the Handmade Turtle. My son, Justin was the potter of this masterpiece. If you look closely at her right flipper, you will see the white glue line. You see, B the Handmade Turtle is broken. She lived a short time with us before she fell.

What do you do with a broken turtle? I guess I could have thrown her away, but that thought never crossed my mind. My son used his hands to shape B. His signature is on B's backside even though you can't see it in this picture. She is a one of a kind turtle girl, a treasured possession.

We are all like B, handmade originals loved by the one who created us. The Lord is the Potter. He is continually shaping us as it seems best to Him. Most of the time we do not understand what He is doing as we are spinning around the potter's wheel. God is asking B to trust that His Hands are on the wheel, regardless of what is happening in her life. It may feel out of control, but it's not. He is asking you to trust where you are in life today also.

The song you learned as a child, complete with hand motions is still true. He's Got the Whole World in His Hands. Sing it with confidence today!"B" His Girl

Friday, August 1, 2008

Turtle Tracks! I saw these in Naples, FL last weekend. This turtle was not stuck in the sand or in a shell. She was walking.

If there is anything that is keeping you from walking the walk, you need to 'let it go.' Tim McGraw has a song called "Let It Go". It talks about standing at the crossroads trying to buy back the pieces of my soul. "Choices and mistakes they all know my name" the songs says. The song declares "Today, I'm gonna keep on walkin'. I'm gonna hold my head up high. I'm gonna leave the past behind. I know I've been forgiven."

Sometimes we need to be reminded to keep going. Today is a gift from God. Thank you Lord for your mercy we found new this morning. Don't miss walking with Him. He has plans to prosper you, not to harm you, to give you hope and a future.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

This is not a fish tale you are about to hear. It is a true turtle story. (The only stretching you will see is with this turtle's neck!) He who has ears, let him hear!

Monday afternoon, I went outside with my camera to photograph a ceramic turtle for today. Turtle Tuesdays is when I feature one of my special turtles and their story. I know it is silly, but I feel led to share my turtle collection with you. My Springer Spaniel, Bandit, was already outside. He had found a REAL turtle. He held it in his mouth for a moment, then dropped it. Bandit was scared of the little turtle. Some watchdog huh!

That was the moment I met B, the Real Turtle with a Word.

Wow, I thought. God sent me a turtle for my (b)log. Thanks, Lord. What great timing He had! (I knew He was reading my blog. : )

I placed B in the garden for a photo shoot. After her encounter with Bandit, she had withdrawn into her shell. I waited for her to stick her neck out. My eyes and camera were focused on her.

I waited and I waited and I waited. She just sat there. There were no signs of movement.

How long was B going to keep me waiting????

Then it hit me. Oh my goodness! God was talking to me. I was B, the turtle with my head in my shell again!

God is waiting on me...."B" His Girl, to stick my neck out in obedience. It's my turn! He has asked me to do something and I have not moved in it. That's all I can say about that for now, but B's Turtle Tuesday word is not just for me. You were sent here to read this.

Is He waiting on you too?

The Word says, "But my righteous one shall live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Do you remember the last time you were at a Worship Service and something powerful happened? Something that caught the attention of everybody, not just your own personal moment...

I may be walking on quicksand saying this, but truthfully I do not witness those kind of moments in church services often. Why is that? Last Sunday was the exception. God was at the beach. He was not on vacation like many of us, but working at our service, Worship at the Water. The message was about reaching out to people, like Jesus did with the leper in Matthew 8: 1-3. The sermon was titled 'Just A Touch'.

A couple of homeless men with a dog stopped by our beach service. They did not have a cardboard sign announcing they were homeless. Their appearance was a major clue. They looked tired, dirty, and one of them was still intoxicated from the night before.

During the closing song, God nudged me to give their dog water. The pit bull enjoyed the cold drink and I met his owner, Chris. I listened to his story and offered to pray with him. As I began to pray, Robert, the intoxicated one, joined us. He was sobbing. Ruth, the pastor, gave Robert her Bible. He was gently rubbing his hands across the Bible trying to wipe the sand from the cover. He held it close, like it was his new found treasure. He kept saying through his quivering voice, "She gave me her Bible. Can you believe she did that?'' He was so proud of that Bible. I will never forget that moment. It made me think about how I see my Bible. Do I treasure His words to me every day? Do I sometimes let dust collect? Chris reached inside his pocket to show me a coin with a picture of Jesus on one side and the Last Supper on the other. It was his reminder that Jesus was with him. To be honest, I was floored how much Robert and Chris had to say about the Lord.

I prayed with them. Tears poured from all of our eyes. Two or more were gathered in His name and let me tell you ...He was in the midst of that sand! I have been blogging about cardboard signs, the homeless, and the question of who is our neighbor over the past couple of weeks. Those things keep crossing my mind. God was stirring my heart for what He had planned. Two days prior to this service, I was asked to be the speaker this fall for a charity fundraiser for the homeless. I realized God was preparing me for that message before I was asked.

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works , which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 I found myself speechless before Him. (I think that is a good thing. He does too! :) 'Be still and know that He is God' was the proper response.

I would love to hear powerful moments of the Spirit's work in your church service. Have you seen His Spirit touch someone lately? Step out in Faith today and see the power of God operating in your life.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Meet B the "Turtle of Oz". She is a favorite from my turtle collection. She makes quite a splash in the pond with her fashion sense. Not everyone could pull off this look like B. However, clothes do not make the man and in this case, the turtle either. Here is what makes B special.

B is a traveler through this land just like us. This is not her final destination, nor ours. She knows, 'There's no place like home.' I am reminded as I look at B's ruby slippers that I too will one day click my heels together and go home. I will see the other side of the rainbow and walk on the yellow brick road. ( aka streets of gold.) B's crown and any I might have will be cast at the feet of Jesus. B makes me feel homesick. The best is yet to come!

Friday, July 18, 2008

Was He talking to me??? I had to stop and laugh the moment I saw read the sticker. Yes, I felt the Lord was talking to me!

The message was on a microphone of all places. How appropriate for one who calls herself a 'speaker'! "Dummy Mic" it said. (No comments allowed from my two friends who read this : ) I thought about what God called me, not a speaker, but a voice...a voice for Him. The 'dummy mic' fit perfectly. He Speaks...I am just the outlet.

My friend B mentioned the fact that my husband's name is Mike. Get it? Dummy Mic (Mike). There were two of us! I got 'the look' when I shared that with my hubby. A smile at the right moment can get you out of the dog house.

Have you identified your gifts? We have all been gifted to serve our neighbor. And who is our neighbor? Sometimes we still want further clarification on the whole 'neighbor' thing. Read Jesus' response to that question in Luke 10: 30-37.

If we want to have eyes that see, God will show us people who are stranded on the side of the road in life. They have almost given up. Many people have already passed them by. They have no hope. We can see the pain from their wounds. They need to see the Great Physician. God wants to use our gifts so they can see Him, not us!

Step out in faith today and use your gifts to be a blessing to someone else.

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:10-11

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

I knew I had an unfair advantage when I won my JOY! Yes, I prayed. I also enlisted other prayer warriors in the battle. We were serious. Prayer and praise are always a good strategy when you are facing your adversary.

After six long days, I received the notice. I WON! The cost of that battle for the three letters was only $45.00 dollars plus shipping on ebay! The prayer warriors and I praised God for the great Joy I received in the victory.

You might think the story ends like this...And Barbara and JOY lived happily ever after in her house. No, it wasn't like that at all. Every battle won comes with a lesson if you choose to hear it. I was about to learn how to get MORE JOY!

I started to hang my JOY on the wall. My husband said, "Barbara, your Joy looks like a billboard sign. It's too big for our house!" "But Mike...I like signs. I have great Joy in my life!" I whined. You know how women sometimes define their body shape by a fruit...like pear shaped. Well, my spiritual fruit shape is 'JOY'. It works for me. I hate it when my husband's right, but I knew Martha Stewart would back his decision. My walls were not tall enough to contain my JOY.

What was I going to do with these letters? I went back to square one, which is prayer. What did God want me to do with the treasure He gave me? 'Share your JOY with others' was the direction I received. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."Luke 6:38

My JOY is now in the church. When Nehemiah, a praying man, and the gang rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem, they had trouble keeping the JOY inside their walls too. Here is their story line ...And on that day they offered great sacrifices, rejoicing because God had given them great joy. The women and children also rejoiced. The sound of rejoicing in Jerusalem could be heard far away. Neh 12:43

Jesus won the battle for us. What are you doing with the JOY you were freely given ?

Thursday, July 10, 2008

I was driving across the 3 mile bridge... sharing my dilemma with my friend Laura. God had just revealed something absolutely shocking to me! He was calling me to talk about Him.... out there...in front of people! There is nothing in my personality that likes being up front . ( I never wanted to be class president.) What was He thinking??? I already talked about Him constantly, but I did that one on one. I just have to say this. How could anyone not talk about Him if they really know Him? I joke with the Lord that it would take more than duct tape to keep me quiet about Him. : ) He is the Alpha and Omega, and EVERYTHING in between.

As Laura and I were discussing my call , it was so overwhelming. " I just want to 'b' a turtle and put my head in my shell" I said. At that moment, a picture of the this turtle passed before my eyes. My friend, Anita had given it to me a couple of weeks earlier. Then I heard the Lord say to me, "Barbara, I don't want your head in a shell. I want you out there for me." It was a moment, a bridge moment that I will always remember. What would I do with that moment?What are you doing with your moments?

That is my 'in the beginning' of "B"eing His turtle girl. By the way, did you notice the color of my first turtle? Yes, she's green. Kermit the frog, in his book said, "It's hard being green." Dittos Kermit! Do you know where this turtle is headed as she comes out of her shell? The Deep! Deep calls to Deep! The light draws her gently to the water. Imagine seeing her face when her flipper first touched that refreshing water. WOW! She wanted to tell all the other turtles who were stuck in the sand that there was MORE ahead. "Don't give up; Keep Walking!" she found herself saying. What am I doing with my moment? This turtle's talking... out there. She found out she could do MORE than she thought she could. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Phil 4:13. No more hiding in my shell; The Lord is my hiding place now. (Psalm 32:7) P.S. I have read the end of the story. The turtle wins the race!

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Signs! They are everywhere: the flashing neon variety, computerized signs, faded billboards, and even cardboard ones. Have you been reading the signs?
Maybe this one is familiar in your area too.
Picture this... a possibly 'homeless' man at the end of an exit ramp... His sign says, 'Hungry. Need work. Please help. God Bless.' We want to read his cardboard box story, but often we don't want to really see the one holding the sign. Is he for real or not? We question that. Know that feeling?

I started a new Sunday School class last year, ThePiranhas...Hungry for God. Because I have a slightly creative, mostly goofy side to my personality, I decided to use this cardboard sign to promote our class in the coffee/bagel area of our church. You might say it was an 'out of the box' move, something you might expect from a turtle girl. (Tell me, how many people really read the church bulletin?) People saw my sign... and I felt God was asking them the question, not me....Were they hungry for MORE of Him in their life?

Are you hungry for more of God in your life?

The results of my cardboard sign ad were interesting. Some wanted to know more and others pretended not to see the sign. Bagels were the bread of choice.

Sometimes we try to contain and control God in our life. That does not work for Him. He wants to tear our cardboard box open and use it for His Glory. Or better yet, choose to break your own alabaster box. Others are reading your sign every day. What's on your cardboard? People want to know, 'Is He is for real or not? ' Don't leave your story unwritten... God sent us a sign, a universal one. He hung His sign to us on a tree set on a hill that could not be hidden.

Point others to HIS SIGN! It reads:"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

"B" His Girl****Notice the rays of light on the "H" in my Hungry for God sign. Can you see the rainbow of colors there? He left His sign on my sign. Thank you Lord. I am taking that response as a sign of your approval of this post. I am counting this as a comment on my new blog. : ) Post anytime Lord. You are just too much for me...for all of us. Your greatness we cannot fathom!
Check out more cardboard signs on youtube! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvDDc5RB6FQ

"Lord, where I am with you isn't working for me. (There...the issue was in the open!) I want/need /desire MORE, MORE, MORE of YOU." I envisioned a beautiful table set before me. It was fit for a King and I was feasting on the things of God. Imagine seeing the 'all you can eat special' with your favorite foods you delight in ! Later that morning at another worship service, this time with stained glass windows, I shared with my friend Dione my experience at She Speaks last week. She Speaks is a writing/speaking conference with Proverbs 31 Ministries. It was amazing. He is AMAZING! Boy, do I have some stories to tell about Him. More to come!I have to share a little background about US (me and Him) for you to understand this story today. God and I have "a thing" with turtles. Yes, I did say turtles! Hang in there with me on this... I call myself one of His little turtle girls. He uses turtles symbolically to communicate with me often. I had a really fun God/turtle story to share with Dione that I saw on a billboard as I drove through Atlanta coming home from the conference. She reported seeing a turtle that morning in her yard as she left for church. Amazing coincidence, huh! She had no idea I was a turtle girl. Dione had thrown out some food in her yard the night before. (Her husband is a star chef so I don't know what the problem was. Maybe she cooked it!) The box turtle was chowing down on that food! Dione had never witnessed a turtle eating. His neck was stretched out from his shell, feasting on his prepared meal. He was delighting in the meal he found. Immediately, I knew God showed her in the natural what I asked for in the spiritual. He was saying YES to my request for MORE of Him. : ) His table is always set for you and me to dine. The invitation to Come and eat of Him is open 24/7 and beyond. He is waiting for us to join Him. So what are we waiting for????????? Dig in! Taste and see that the LORD is good. (Ps 34:8) I will meet you at the table!

Monday, June 30, 2008

Tuesdays from 12:00 to 1:00 I meet with four or five women in the sanctuary of our church and we pray. God called us to do that and we are faithfully showing up each week.

A couple of weeks ago there was a circle of light on the stage. The dark green carpet seem to be a backdrop so we would notice the bright spot. We walked up on the stage and checked out the spot. If you had seen us, you would have thought we were five years old again. We stuck our hands in the light to see where the ray was coming from. One of the girls suggested standing in the light. Our actions might seem silly for grown women, but we were paying attention to our surroundings. I am supposed to ask you this question. Are you paying attention?

The following Sunday, the title of the pastor's sermon was 'Standing in God's Smile'. He shared the story of a little boy who asked his mother about a spot of light on the floor. The mother told her son that the spot was God's smile. The little boy walked to the circle of light. His mother ask him what he was doing. He said he was 'standing in God's smile'. As the little boy grew up and became successful, he grew distant in his relationship with the Lord. One day as he was clearing out his mom's house after her death, he found a pair of small leather shoes with a note stuffed inside. It said, "these are the shoes you were wearing when you were standing in God's smile. : )

Needless to say, the 'prayer girls' were blown away. God wanted us to know that circle of light was His smile to us! We knew He was showing up for prayer, but He wanted us to see the expression on His face. He was 'beaming' at us. WOW GOD!

If you are walking by faith following Jesus, stepping up to the things He has asked you to do....this is especially for you today : )
You know all those yellow smiley stickers/signs in Wal-Mart, do you think that maybe, just maybe... that is a sign to us? God is in Wal-Mart. : ) I know. I have bumped into Him many times there. Look with the eyes of Faith when you are walking down Aisle 15. His eyes are on YOU! That's something to : ) about!